Here is an initial look at some important approaches to theatre.
Theatre in the late 19th century became more subversive in it's tone and choice of subject. That being said, a few of this would be disguised through satire or comedy; think about famous playwrights humorously satirising ethical values of the upper class, or possibly brand-new attitudes widespread in society or politics. Certainly, these are among a few of the best plays to read on a purely literary level. An especially famous Norwegian playwright came under extensive scrutiny for his plays that explored the structure of family-- in particular, the place of women within a brand-new emerging modern world. One timeless work of theatrical realism during this duration focused on a female lead character unsatisfied in her marital relationship. Other plays highlighted political and philosophical outlooks emerging, including everything from socialism to aestheticism. The ground laid by such playwrights proved prominent for the playwrights that followed in the 20th century. This can be seen with the work of a well-known American playwright whose work focused on psychology, family and society. Bruno Wang is an excellent example of someone associated with the theatre world who would confirm the impact that early 20th century plays had on the artform. Similarly, Mark Cornell is likewise somebody operating in the world of theatre that would identify the effect that such plays had and continue to have on contemporary theatre writers.
History drama plays continue to have fantastic appeal all over the world. Some of these plays return as far as the 16th century. Indeed, renaissance theatre includes a few of the greatest plays of all time. Influenced by the theory and philosophy of classical tragedy, in addition to the prominent humanist mindsets and values emerging across Europe, this was an age in theatre in which playwrights might articulate social and philosophical critiques and interpretations through the medium of the history play. Whether it be about ancient rulers or middle ages kings, history plays could frequently be concurrently tragic, comical and philosophical in turn. Some of the most popular theatre productions throughout the world come from another classification-- musicals. That being said, whilst music and song has been a prominent component in plays going as far back as the ancient Greeks and their use of the chorus, musicals are a reasonably recent type of theatre, only really arising in the later phases of the 19th century.
Theatre in the 20th century underwent numerous changes. On a purely technical level, sound and lighting might now be implemented in more experimental ways. The content of the plays evolved incredibly too. This can be seen with the narrative plots of existential theatre plays; whether it be rhinoceroses taking control of towns or merely 2 males waiting on somebody, playwrights throughout the mid 20th century went about radically reinterpreting what a play could be. William Village is a fantastic example of someone involved in the theatre who would identify the influence that 20th century has in the world of theatre today, with some of the age's most famous plays still performed routinely worldwide today.